Key West Aquarium, Public aquarium in Mallory Square, Key West, United States
The Key West Aquarium displays nurse sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, and many fish species in open tanks flooded with natural sunlight. Visitors can observe the animals from multiple angles and watch the water and creatures move throughout the day in the bright, airy space.
The facility opened in 1934 as a public works project during the Great Depression and became one of the first open-air aquariums in Florida. Its founding helped support the local economy during a difficult time and established it as a lasting community institution.
Daily presentations here teach visitors about local marine creatures and their role in the ocean ecosystem. Staff members share knowledge about shark behavior and sea turtle conservation in ways that make the connection between the animals and their natural habitats clear.
Come early in the day to experience the best natural light in the tanks and see the animals most active. Wear comfortable shoes since you will walk between different exhibit areas throughout your visit.
Four permanent resident sea turtles that cannot return to the wild live here as ambassadors for marine conservation work. These animals demonstrate to visitors why protecting ocean habitats and preventing injuries to sea creatures matters so much.
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